When It's Time to Repair Windows

If your windows are in need of repair, it's important to work with care. Wear safety glasses and gloves to protect yourself from glass shards.

An easy solution to a damaged window is to place a plastic covering over the crack. This will stop rain, snow and insects from entering your home.

Cracked glass

Glass that has cracked can make your home look less attractive and allow drafts to get in. The cracks could be caused by an impact (like a baseball or soccer ball) or are the result of stress, for example an abrupt change in temperature it is crucial to have them fixed as soon as you can to avoid further damage and ensure your windows are functioning correctly.

If your window is damaged but not broken, a quick solution is to apply clear tape to it. It's an easy and affordable solution that will provide some protection from water, dust bugs and other particles, as well as keeping out the elements.

If the crack is getting larger or is getting more large, it is recommended to speak with a professional. A professional glazier can identify the cause of a crack and recommend the best repair method.

Impact cracks are the most common window cracks. They usually occur when a solid object is thrown at your window with enough force that it breaks. These cracks are typically accompanied by a starburst pattern of lines and broken pieces that could be dangerous if they fall loose. If you have double-pane windows this crack could weaken the gas layer between the panes and impact the efficiency of your windows.

Another kind of crack is a stress crack, which develops gradually over time due to extreme temperature fluctuations or other environmental factors. The cracks start around the edge of your window and can progress to full-blown cracks.

A pressure crack is a more severe crack however it can be fixed. It is a curvy, curved line that can extend across the window on one or more sides. It can be caused by high or low pressure, which can cause the glass to expand or contract.

If you're ready to take a step beyond nail polish and tape there are a few alternatives to fix cracks in your window glass. A product like Glass Repair Film is a bit more costly, but it will provide more protection and durability for your windows. If you prefer to do it yourself, epoxy is an adhesive that can be used to fill in cracks and prevent further damage. It will make your window appear like it never had any cracks at any point.

Leaking Windows

If you notice a damp spot under your window or the wood around it appears soft or rotting it could be the time to fix your windows. In excess moisture, it creates the perfect environment for mold and mildew which can create a range of issues for your home. They can lead to indoor air pollution, sagging drywall, and can even increase the severity of allergies. If left unchecked, they can also cause structural damage to the home.

If the water is coming from outside or is visible through the frame it's a good idea to seek out a professional to assist repair the issue immediately. Don't ignore leaking windows. They are a leading cause of mold and structural damage.

In many cases, a simple layer of caulking is enough to stop leaks. Before applying the new caulking, you'll have to clean the area and remove any existing caulking.

You'll also need to check the weep holes on the frame to ensure they're not blocked with debris. These holes are designed to drain rainwater but can become clogged in time due to insect corpses or other debris.

Make sure you have a seal between the double-paned window and the metal frame. This will ensure a barrier between the glass panes and make the windows more efficient. The seal can wear down over time, however, and allow water to get into the home.

Water stains on ceiling and walls are another indication of leaks. The drywall becomes discolored when it is saturated with water. Peeling paint is another sign of water affecting the adhesive properties of the paint and pulling it away from the wall.

Faux Muntins & Mullions

In the past muntins (or glazing bars, as they are known in the UK) were a way to separate and were used to hold the panes of multi-paned windows. Since larger expanses of tempered glass became available after WWII They went out of fashion. They're used only as decorative elements in some older homes.

Sometimes just a small or a single group of these wooden supports may get damaged by rain or wind and cause cracks to the window. You can repair the majority of these brittle or decaying parts.

First take a rag and clean the affected areas. Use ammonia-based cleaners that doesn't leave any residue. Remove any rotting or loose components and use an exacta-knife cut the intersections between the vertical and horizontal painted window doctor near me muntins. After you've cut the intersections, seal the lower part of the window frame using painter's tape. Now, you're able to apply a thick coat of white paint, paying particular focus on the areas that were lightly coated on the first go. Allow the paint to fully dry before taking off the masking tape and applying the second coat.

If you're dealing with an issue that is more serious like a crack that forms an hourglass shape in middle of the window it's likely to be recommended to replace the sash. In these instances, it's important to find the right replacement window doctor near me that matches the style and size of the current one.

To save money you can install an attached grid window. These windows consist of a glass pane with a series muntins that are fixed to the surface. This creates a divi-sected appearance. They're not as energy efficient as traditional windows, however.

If you're looking for a simple method to modernize your windows, think about installing an additional drip cap to stop water from leaking around the window frame. There are a variety of these drip caps made of aluminum at many home centers for less than $20. These are much easier to install than replacement windows sashes, Repair My Windows And Doors and will provide the same function as a real mullion or muntin.

Broken Sashes & Frames

A broken window sash should be a sign that you should call for help. A damaged sash, left unchecked can cause water leaks, wood decay and other serious problems to the frame and sill. If you have a damaged sash, you should replace it as soon as possible to ensure that the window is sealed.

Most of the time, the issue is caused by worn out or improperly hung the sash cords. Luckily, replacing them is relatively simple and can be done in the majority of double-hung windows. You'll first need to remove tabs made of metal that hold the sash. Press upwards on the opposite side of the sash (it doesn't matter which side) and then pull toward the opposite side to pull it out. You'll want to carefully remove the strip that divides the sash from the other to allow access to the location where the sash cords are located.

It's important that you compare the metal tabs of the old sash with the new one. If they are different it can be difficult to put the new sash in its proper place and could impact how the sash functions. This can be corrected by putting the tabs in their correct places on the new window.

In addition to the sashes, you'll need to check your window frame for any problems or rot. It's recommended to check it regularly since the wood shrinks and gets worn down over time, particularly after exposure to the elements. It is important to Repair My Windows And Doors any visible damage as soon as you can, to avoid a bigger issue.

If your window frames are in poor condition, you'll need to treat them with a homemade preservative created by mixing half mineral spirits with half boiling linseed oil. After the treatment has dried for a total of two days, you are able to finish your frames with a high quality latex paint. A fresh coat of paint will help to protect your window from the elements, too.